The three aides - Emilio Fede, an executive in Berlusconi's media empire; Nicole Minetti, a local politician and former showgirl, and talent agent Dario "Lele" Mora - are accused of recruiting women for prostitution and abetting prostitution, including of a minor.

They deny wrongdoing.

Berlusconi is being tried separately for allegedly paying for sex with the Moroccan girl, charges he denies. He faces a hearing in that case Wednesday, the first since he resigned as premier.